Beginner-Friendly Upcycling & Decorative Painting Annie Sloan
Ever heard of Annie Sloan? This is your chance to experience her iconic Chalk Paint® techniques first-hand. Learn how to upgrade your home items like bottles, plates, jugs, wooden boxes, plant pots - and also learn techniques to upgrade furniture such as chairs, wardrobes and tables!
Join us at Clever Hands for a relaxed, hands-on upcycling workshop where you’ll learn how to transform everyday objects using Annie Sloan’s renowned decorative painting methods.
What you’ll learn
- How to paint on wood, glass, metal, plastic and ceramics
- Key Chalk Paint® techniques for beginners
- How to mix colours and create custom finishes
- Tips for waxing, sealing and long-lasting results
- How to confidently upcycle items from home or charity shop
Bring your own items, bric & brac from home or thrift:
- Glass bottles (wine, oil, jars)
- Wooden frames or boxes
- Ceramics (plates, mugs, pots)
- Metal tins or trays
No large furniture please.
If you don’t have anything to bring, we’ll have a selection of items available for a small donation.
What’s included
- Full use of Annie Sloan Chalk Paint®, brushes and waxes
- Step-by-step demonstration and guidance
- A curated Annie Sloan workshop paint palette
- Tea, coffee and biscuits (day classes)
- Complimentary wine for evening sessions
Exclusive workshop perk
Enjoy 10% off all Annie Sloan products purchased on the day.
We stock the full range of Annie Sloan colours, plus brushes, tools and accessories, so you can continue your projects at home with confidence.
Why this workshop is different
Clever Hands is an official Annie Sloan stockist, and your tutor (shop owner & Artist Catherine) has trained directly at the brand’s UK headquarters in Oxford. You’ll gain insider knowledge, practical skills, and a deeper understanding of Annie Sloan’s approach to creative upcycling and decorative painting.
You’ll also get to explore the story behind the brand, including Annie Sloan’s first book (published in 1987), and see real examples of how versatile Chalk Paint® can be across multiple surfaces.
The result
You’ll leave with:
- Your own upcycled, hand-painted pieces
- The confidence to continue at home, even on furniture
- A new creative skill you can build on
Our Mission:
Inspire, Educate,
Amid the rush of modern life, creativity often takes a backseat. At Clever Hands, we believe that making art nurtures openness, relaxation, and fresh perspectives. Our goal is simple: to make art accessible for everyone — whether that's through hands-on classes, thoughtfully curated kits, or bite-sized online tutorials & video demonstrations.
FAQ's
-
We deliver across the UK, with free delivery on orders over £50. International delivery is available via our Etsy shop.
-
UK orders usually arrive within 3–5 working days. International orders may take longer depending on location.
-
Unopened kits can be returned within 14 days of purchase. Unfortunately, we can’t accept returns once a kit has been opened.
-
Absolutely. Our kits make wonderful presents, and we’re happy to send them straight to the recipient on your behalf. Each kit is thoughtfully packaged, and you can add a personalised gift message at checkout to make it extra special.
Why Choose Clever Hands?
Founded by Artist/ Maker Catherine Carmyllie, our studio celebrates shared learning and creativity.
Our kits arrive beautifully packaged, beginner-friendly, and complete - delighting both new and seasoned makers, beautifully packed with everything you need to find a new creative hobby.
Whether you join us in person, shop online, or watch from afar, we offer accessible creativity for everyone.
From the studio to your doorstep, each kit is prepared with care, all our kits and supplies make great gifts.
